What to Know If You're Sexually Harassed at Work

Posted on Jan 21, 2015 12:32pm PST

Did you know that the majority of workers who suffer from sexual harassment
never report these incidences, either to their employers or to a sexual
harassment attorney? You don't have to let your tormenter get away
with crude behaviors; you do have legal rights and recourse. If you've
suffered from unwanted advances or other types of sexual harassment at
work, it's in your best interests to contact a sexual harassment attorney
in San Jose. Your
employment harassment lawyercan inform you of everything you need to know to successfully handle your claim.

Understand Your Company's Sexual Harassment PolicyThe first step you should take after experiencing sexual harassment is
to find your company's policy on these types of behaviors. Check your
employee handbook, union contract, postings in the break room, and similar
areas, or ask your point of contact in the human resources department
for a copy of the policy. The policy should outline the exact steps you
need to take to report the incident. If the person to whom you're
supposed to report the incident is the person who has harassed you, go
to that person's supervisor. If your company lacks a sexual harassment
policy, you can report the incident in writing to your supervisor or ask
your sexual harassment attorney for guidance.

Avoid Giving Your Two Weeks' NoticeWhen dealing with sexual harassment, it's all too common for the victims
to quit out of fear or shame. While it's your right to quit any time
you wish, you should be aware that in doing so, you may forfeit your right
to file a sexual harassment lawsuit. If your employer has a sexual harassment
policy, you must follow the steps outlined in that policy and allow your
employer the chance to take appropriate disciplinary action. If you quit before your employer has this opportunity, you may not be
able to file a lawsuit. However, if you feel that your physical safety
is in jeopardy or your mental health is at risk, you might decide that
it's worth it to find a new job.

Document and Report All IncidencesYour sexual harassment attorney will need thorough documentation of all
incidences of sexual harassment. Carry a small notebook around your office
with you and write down the dates and times of all incidents, as well
as what happened. Report each incident to your supervisor promptly.